Let me tell you something that's happening in the Sierras of California (especially the Truckee River). Game wardens check everyone's flies to see if they barbless. They will pass the fly through a cotton ball. If it snags, it is not considered barbless. One can pinch down a barb, and still have piece that may snag the cotton. Some overzealous game wardens will ticket anyone if there is the tiniest amount of snag. The fine, as I was told, is $435.